The Lion in Winter: A Classic Drama of Royal Intrigue and Deception

Actors Theatre of San Francisco presents The Lion in Winter, James Goldman's historical play depicting the family of King Henry II on Christmas in the year 1183. Known for their acrimonious relationship, the king and queen battle to determine which of their three sons will succeed to the throne. Their battle is marked by treachery, scandal, and some of the sharpest dialogue ever seen on stage.

The Actor's complement of actors are so talented that one only wonders what heights they could reach with a bigger production budget and a better equipped theater. The Lion in Winter is good value. It's a story of intrigue with strong character...continued

The characters playing Eleanor and Henry were outstanding, and really made this production. It moved along quickly, humorously, and connivingly, and was over too soon, although it was 2 1/2 hours.
Fascinating example of royal politics.

Quotes & Highlights

“Actor’s Theatre of San Francisco is a small group of dedicated people with limited resources that never shrinks from the challenge of bringing important theater to its loyal audience and making it come alive. Every production is a credit to the acting community” —ForAllEvents.com

Description

“What shall we hang? The Holly or each other?” The year is 1183 and it’s a bitter cold Christmas in the Court of Henry Plantagenet, better known as King Henry II. Written by James Goldman, this electric production is full of palace intrigue, death threats and clever wordplay as Eleanor of Aquitaine and her three desperate sons vie for England’s crown.

ATSF’s production is directed by founding member and award-winning director Joyce Henderson. Set design by Biz Duncan, Light Design by Rachel Klyce with technical direction provided by James Baldock.

About the Ticket Supplier: Actors Theatre of San Francisco

Founded in August of 1989 by a group of professional actors and directors who shared a common desire to produce ensemble theatre works, the founding members of the Actors Theatre of San Francisco committed themselves to creating a permanent repertory company whose work would reflect their ideals of ensemble theatre: a theatre where all the participants share the same artistic vision, have a unified approach to the rehearsal process and a desire to create revelatory theatre that surpasses their desire for individual gain. The founding members gave themselves no restriction as to style, content or period. Instead, they committed themselves to producing theatre that is designed to enlighten and illuminate the human condition.